India Screens 5.72 Crore People to Fight Sickle Cell Disease
New Delhi: India has screened over 5.72 crore people for Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), moving forward in its efforts to eliminate the genetic blood disorder, the Union Ministry of Health said on Thursday, on the occasion of World Sickle Cell Day.
World Sickle Cell Day is observed on June 19 each year to raise awareness about Sickle Cell Disease, a chronic, inherited condition that leads to complications such as chronic anaemia, painful episodes, organ damage, and a shorter life expectancy.
"This World Sickle Cell Day, India is stepping closer to a sickle cell-free future!" the Ministry posted on social media platform X.
The disease is widespread in India, particularly among tribal populations, though non-tribal communities are also affected. According to the 2011 Census, tribal groups make up 8.6% of India’s population, or about 67.8 million people — the highest tribal population density in the world.
To address this health challenge, the National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Madhya Pradesh on July 1, 2023. The mission aims to eliminate SCD as a public health issue by 2047.
As of June 3, 2025, over 5.72 crore people have been screened under the mission, achieving more than 75% of the three-year target. Over 2.65 crore screenings have taken place since April 2024.
So far, 2.50 crore Sickle Cell Status Cards have been issued. These efforts have helped identify 1.98 lakh people with the disease and 14 lakh with the sickle cell trait. All patients diagnosed are currently receiving treatment, the Ministry said.
Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda stated, “This day offers a platform to educate communities, promote early diagnosis, and support ongoing research.” He emphasised the need to break stigma and provide care to those affected.
The Ministry has urged people to be aware of symptoms in children such as frequent fever, pain, swelling in hands or feet, poor growth, and breathlessness. Other signs include jaundice, repeated infections, blood in urine, enlarged spleen, and leg ulcers.
“Don’t delay, consult a doctor immediately. Early action can make all the difference,” the Ministry said on X.
Jyoti Kumari joined Medical Dialogues in 2025 as a Journalism Intern. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communication from the Delhi School of Journalism, University of Delhi. She is passionate about news reporting, content creation, social media, and emerging media trends.